Cancer Autism And Their Epigenetic Roots

This book considers the branch of heredity known as "epigenetics" and its implications for a variety of diseases in humans and animals. After background information on the growth in understanding genetics and the mechanisms of the epigenetic control of gene expression, the book moves into its main focus: the gathering body of evidence connecting genetics to a range of significant illnesses, including cancer, autism, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes and others. Areas of uncertainty are stressed as well as the scientific debate concerning the role of environmental factors. The final chapters discuss the implications for society. Extensive notes provide additional details and personal anecdotes.

Early detection of breast cancer is critical. Yet efforts to cut back on mammography or even stop screening altogether have been gaining ground in the medical community's decades-long debate over testing and treatment. It is not a purely scientific debate--back-room politics and hidden agendas have played as much a role as clinical data, leading to some surprising conclusions. Written by one of the first physicians in the country to specialize in breast cancer risk assessment, genetic testing and high-risk interventions, this book focuses on the screening controversy and explains the arguments used on both sides. The author covers the history of screening, from the first mobile unit on the streets of Manhattan to the cutting edge imaging technology of today.

With the recent discovery that amyloid beta protein, the cause of plaques in Alzheimer's disease, is an antimicrobial peptide produced in response to infection, many researchers are focusing on the role infection plays in the development of Alzheimer's disease. Brain studies have also identified a number of different viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa in the postmortem brain specimens of Alzheimer's patients. Infection (particularly chronic, latent and persistent infections) causes an immune response that leads to inflammation and brain cell degeneration, which are characteristic features of Alzheimer's disease. Sources of infection in Alzheimer's disease vary from childhood infections to gut microbes that find their way into the brain as a result of aging, leaky gut syndrome, and increased permeability of the blood brain barrier. Studies and ongoing clinical trials show that treatment of viral and bacterial infections, as well as restoring a healthy balance to the gut microbiome, can reduce disease risk and improve symptoms in patients with Alzheimer's disease. This book serves as an introduction to the human microbiome and the role that infection plays in the development of Alzheimer's disease.

Addressing a significant need by describing the science and process involved to develop biosimilars of monoclonal antibody (mAb) drugs, this book covers all aspects of biosimilar development: preclinical, clinical, regulatory, manufacturing. • Guides readers through the complex landscape involved with developing biosimilar versions of monoclonal antibody (mAb) drugs • Features flow charts, tables, and figures that clearly illustrate processes and makes the book comprehensible and accessible • Includes a review of FDA-approved mAb drugs as a quick reference to facts and useful information • Examines new technologies and strategies for improving biosimilar mAbs

Breathing is so fundamental to life that the brain is hardwired so that when breathing is compromised for any reason, nothing else matters. Shortness of breath is an attention-getter, but when breathing problems become frequent, help is needed. Health care providers are there to help and prescribe medication that brings temporary relief, but many patients leave with unanswered questions about more permanent, long-lasting treatments or cures. This book guides respiratory patients toward having the most productive relationships with their doctors. A respiratory therapist (RRT), the author uses decades of clinical experience to outline how patients can be more active participants in their own medical care. With a better understanding of the right questions, more beneficial discussions with doctors will help fine-tune every individual's medical care plan.

As Americans and citizens of other industrializing countries began to enjoy lives of increasing affluence and ease during the first half of the 20th century, a rising tide of heart attacks and strokes displaced infectious diseases as the leading cause of death, killing millions in the United States and throughout the world. Although cardiovascular disease remains serious and widespread, the significant decline of per capita deaths is one of the greatest accomplishments of modern public health and medicine. Death rates from heart attack and stroke have fallen dramatically by 80% in the past 50 years -- the progress has been hard won by a combination of basic and applied laboratory research, broad and far-reaching epidemiological studies by physicians, scientists, and public health experts. Cardiovascular disease is no longer viewed as an as an inevitable feature of the natural course of aging, and complacency has given way to hope. This book focuses on developments that influenced the rise and decline of cardiovascular mortality since 1900, but also includes insider insights from the author, a 42-year NIH employee.

The first of its kind, this guidebook provides an overview of clinical holistic interventions for mental-health practitioners. Submissions from 21 contributors examine the validity of different methods and provide information on credentialed training and licensure requirements necessary for legal and ethical practice. Chapters covering a range of healing modalities describe the populations and disorders for which the intervention is most effective, as well as the risks involved, and present research on the effectiveness of treatment, with step-by-step sample clinical sessions.

Millions of people experience symptoms of central sensitization (CS) and central sensitivity syndromes (CSS) such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia and multiple chemical sensitivities. Yet many lack diagnoses, education and resources. Without proper support, some patients may become withdrawn, suffering needlessly and possibly developing mental illness. Covering the syndromes within the context of central sensitization (CS), this book provides candid personal experience, strategies for symptom management, and suggested methods for coping and long-term healing, with easy-to-understand science.

"Tuesday morning, I spent an hour with a neurologist trying to figure out why I kept tripping over my feet. He pushed and pulled on my legs, whacked me with a reflex hammer and shone a light so deep into my eyes I thought it might illuminate the wall behind my head. That afternoon, I drove home and ordered a new backpacking tent." Pain is an unforgiving equalizer--forget social status, race or gender. For people suffering from chronic pain, "real life" can get lost among endless appointments, diagnoses, prescriptions and medical bills. Living a life beyond mere survival becomes as big a battle as fighting the pain itself. Drawing on her experiences as both a patient and a health-care professional, the author candidly describes her sudden transition from a healthy, active lifestyle to years of learning to live with debilitating pain.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common chronic disease affecting people of different ages, cultural backgrounds and socio-economic statuses worldwide. Research links hypertension to increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease and cardiovascular disease--the leading cause of death worldwide. This book provides an up-to-date illustrated overview of research findings concerning hypertension, covering risk factors, increase in prevalence, cultures affected and challenges to treating and managing the disease in specific populations. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods for effectively managing hypertension are discussed.